Pierce's Disease
Xylella fastidiosa
2 host plants
Last updated
This profile contains verified disease data from extension databases. Regional field notes and expert review are in progress.
Pierce's disease of grapevine causes wilting, scorching, and eventual death of infected vines through bacterial pathogen transmitted by sharpshooter leafhoppers. Remove infected vines immediately to prevent spread. Control insect vectors to limit disease transmission. Select resistant varieties where available. Once established, management focuses on removing infected plants. Monitor your plants closely and implement integrated management strategies. Prompt removal of infected material helps limit disease spread.
Cultural management is your first line: remove infected material, clean up debris, and improve the growing environment to make conditions less favorable for the pathogen. Avoid wounding plants during maintenance, as many pathogens enter through fresh cuts. Chemical options are available for severe cases, but they work best as preventive treatments applied before symptoms appear.
Quick Reference
Management
Cultural Controls
- Maintain trees as best you can with minimal care and infrequent deep waterings during the summer months while forest pathologists scratch their heads. References Betzen, J. J., Ramsey, A., Omdal, D., Ettl, G. J. and Tobin, P. C. 2021. Bigleaf maple, Acer macrophyllum Pursh, decline in western Washington, USA. Forest Ecology and Management, 501, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2021.119681.